To our sisters who are alimas, madrasah teachers, activists, and da’wah carriers: Trials & Tribulations is more than a charity challenge. It is an opportunity for you to lead by example, embodying the principles of Islam that you so passionately teach and uphold.
As scholars and role models, you are already guiding others on the path of righteousness. This challenge is your chance to show that Islam is not just taught but lived. Your participation in this event can inspire countless women to rise to the occasion, proving that solidarity, sacrifice, and action are core elements of our faith.
The example of the Prophet ﷺ
The life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a testament to the importance of leading by example. He ﷺ never asked his companions to endure trials he was not willing to face himself. Whether it was hunger during the Battle of the Trench or the physical toll of calling others to Islam, the Prophet ﷺ always led from the front.
By taking part in Trials & Tribulations, you are following this Sunnah. You are not just guiding others with words but showing them through action what it means to stand in solidarity with Muslim women enduring unimaginable hardships.
The Quranic call to action
The Quran repeatedly emphasises the importance of striving in the way of Allah:
“And those who strive for Us – We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.” (Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:69)
Striving includes every effort made for the sake of Allah, whether it’s teaching, spreading da’wah, or taking on challenges like this to help those in need.
As a scholar, teacher, or activist, your participation demonstrates the practical application of these principles, motivating others to strive in Allah’s cause.
Why your role is crucial
You hold positions of influence in your communities. Women and girls look up to you, taking cues from your actions as much as your words. When you take on this challenge—trekking, fasting, tackling muddy obstacles, all while wearing your full Muslim dress—you send a powerful message.
You show that Islam encourages action, resilience, and compassion. You prove that our faith calls us not only to speak but to do.
Connecting with the struggles of others
The Prophet ﷺ emphasised the importance of empathy, saying:
“The believers, in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy, are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Taking part in this event is an act of empathy. By experiencing even a fraction of the hardships faced by so many Muslim women—hunger, exhaustion, discomfort—you deepen your connection to their struggles and reinforce the bond of ummah.
Inspiring the next generation
Your participation can also inspire the students, congregants, and communities you serve. It’s one thing to teach about sacrifice and solidarity; it’s another to embody it. When younger sisters see you stepping up, they’ll realise that no one is too learned, too busy, or too established to serve the ummah.
A legacy of action
As an alima, teacher, or activist, your work already leaves a lasting impact. By taking part in Trials & Tribulations, you add to that legacy, showing that knowledge and action go hand in hand.
The scholars of the past were known not only for their wisdom but for their willingness to endure hardship for the sake of Allah. Whether it was Imam Abu Hanifa refusing to compromise under persecution or the Prophet’s ﷺ companions giving their wealth and lives for Islam, the greatest leaders in our tradition were also the greatest doers.
Join the challenge
To our scholarly sisters, this is your moment to inspire, to connect, and to lead. The Quran and Sunnah call us to strive in Allah’s cause, to stand with the oppressed, and to be role models for others.
By taking on Trials & Tribulations, you exemplify these values in action, becoming a source of inspiration for generations to come. Let your participation be a testimony to the resilience, empathy, and faith that define our deen.
This is more than a challenge; it’s an opportunity to live the values you teach. Will you rise to it?